How to Get a Private ADHD Diagnosis
If you'd like to be diagnosed with ADHD, a psychiatric assessment will need to take place. The test will be conducted by a psychiatrist or an expert ADHD nurse.
It's a process that can involve some red tape, such as the need for old school records to be provided. However, you can skip the line and receive a private assessment by booking directly through an online ADHD clinic.
What is a private evaluation?
A private assessment for ADHD is a consultation with an expert who will discuss your symptoms and how they impact your life. It typically lasts two sessions and is more in-depth than an NHS psychotherapy assessment. The process involves an organized interview with an expert who will review your symptoms from childhood until adulthood. They will also consider other neurological or mental health issues that could be contributing to your symptoms. They will focus on different areas of functioning, including relationships or work. They will ask you to give examples of your symptoms and how they affect you.
It is important to keep in mind that the diagnosis of ADHD isn't a straight forward one and many people who are told that they are suffering from the condition have a mixed diagnostic picture. Inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity are the three primary symptoms. private adhd assessment can differ from the raucous hyperactivity that is seen in children. It may manifest as restlessness or a constant rush around. Inattention may also manifest as a difficulty in concentrating on tasks, organising or sitting down.
If you think medication will help your symptoms, a psychiatrist's formal diagnosis is required. This will allow you to access reasonable adjustments and Disabled Student Allowance (DSA). This can be done by asking your GP to refer you to a psychiatric assessment.
You may find that your GP doesn't want to refer you, or doesn't provide you with an appointment right away. If this is the case, it may be worthwhile changing GPs and you can find out more about how to exercise your right to choose on the Psychiatry UK website.
You might also be able to make an appointment directly with a private psychiatric provider using the NHS system or on your own. A majority of these doctors will require a referral letter from your GP but some don't however, so make sure to make sure to check with the provider you choose prior to making an appointment.
How do I obtain an individual evaluation?
ADHD is a mental disorder that is complex and affects brain processes like motivation as well as working memory and attention. It can cause problems in a wide range of areas for adults and can be difficult to live with. A private ADHD assessment will help you to understand the impact of these symptoms on your life and can be helpful in determining ways to manage them.
There are a number of providers who will conduct an ADHD assessment on behalf of the NHS. You can exercise your right to choose (RTC) by asking your GP to refer you to one of these providers. If your GP is unable to refer you to a provider, you may want to find another GP willing to help.
Typically an assessment will be performed by a psychiatrist or specialist nurse (or any other healthcare professional who is appropriate according to NICE guidelines). This is because they are the only professionals who are able to diagnose ADHD. In the majority of cases an ADHD assessment will include questionnaires and a clinic interview either in person or via video chat. It will typically last 45-90 minutes.
If you are an adult you will be asked questions about your current difficulties as well as your past struggles since your childhood. The healthcare expert will determine if have any of the symptoms associated with ADHD, such as inattention, hyperactivity, and the tendency to be impulsive. You will be asked to provide instances where you displayed these traits. The healthcare professional will then use these to make an assessment and suggest treatments.
If you're suffering from a chronic condition and do not want to wait for an appointment from the NHS seeking an assessment privately is beneficial. However, it is important to remember that an assessment done privately does not mean you will automatically be prescribed medication by your GP. You will have to discuss the issue with them, and if you decide to take medication, you must consider a shared-care arrangement with your GP.
If you have a GP in England who is happy to refer you to an NHS provider for an ADHD assessment You can find a list of the providers here. Some of these companies offer assessments on the internet and have shorter waiting times.
How do I get a private diagnosis?
There are many methods to receive an ADHD assessment. The NHS offers a procedure called 'Right to Choose' where you can request your GP for a referral to any of the specialist providers that are on their list. This can reduce the waiting time considerably. Private providers can also offer rapid diagnosis.
In general, it's best to find a specialist psychiatrist who has expertise in adult ADHD. However, it may take some time to locate one since they aren't readily available. Some will require an GP referral letter before they can see you for an examination, but this is not always necessary.
Psychiatrists can assess your symptoms but cannot prescribe medication. Other mental health professionals, including Psychologists, can help you manage symptoms. However, they are not able to provide a formalised diagnosis of ADHD that is required to receive support services like Disabled Student's allowance or reasonable adjustments at the workplace.
An expert Psychiatrist can identify and explain your symptoms, assess whether they are related to ADHD and also consider any other mental health issues you may have. Your Psychiatrist is in a position to give you the best treatment if your honest and forthcoming.
You'll have to pay for your evaluation. If you are diagnosed with ADHD it could be possible to get medication through a shared-care agreement with your doctor. (You'll still need to pay the NHS prescription fee). We suggest speaking to your GP regarding the possibility of a private diagnosis prior to making an appointment. This will allow them to be aware of what you are doing and give their consent if necessary.
Participating in a support group is another option to meet other adults with ADHD and gain knowledge from their experiences. They can be incredibly supportive, comforting and encouraging. You can find online communities on Facebook and Reddit and also look for local groups that meet in person.
Are private assessments valid?
Recent BBC Panorama investigation has caused controversy over claims that private clinics offer a false diagnosis. A reporter undercover visited three private ADHD assessment providers and was diagnosed with the condition by all of them, despite the fact that the patient did not have ADHD. The report stated that these assessments were not thorough and did not take into consideration the full spectrum of symptoms or the impact ADHD can have on people's daily lives. The report also raised concerns regarding patients who aren't qualified for NHS assessments and are required to pay out of pocket for an assessment or prescription.
There is a fact that GPs will often suggest you to have an ADHD assessment with one of the main private companies (such as Priory) however they will usually advise you there will likely be a waiting time. This varies from provider to provider and typically is approximately six weeks. It is recommended to investigate the provider thoroughly and ask family and friends members for referrals. Picking a reputable, experienced company will probably mean you will have an easier time waiting than if you choose to go through your GP.
During the examination the psychiatrist will, albeit subjectively determine if your ADHD symptoms are causing significant impairment to your daily functioning. They will also want to rule out other reasons, such as anxiety or depression. If needed, they will ask for additional evidence from family members (sometimes by filling out forms about your childhood). This is a stressful process particularly for those with complex family situations or who can't locate their school records from childhood.
Once private adhd assessment uk 've been assessed and diagnosed with ADHD by a qualified health professional you will be eligible to apply for disability assistance through your local authority. But, be aware that most GPs will not sign a document known as a shared care agreement if you have been diagnosed privately and have not been fully titrated to your final dose of medication. This is because doctors are not trained to diagnose and treat adults suffering from ADHD.